Mendhar, Monday: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Monday handed over engagement orders to newly selected Anganwadi Workers and Helpers from Mendhar and Balakote under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme.
The programme marked a step towards strengthening early childhood care, nutrition, maternal healthcare and community welfare services in rural and border areas of the region.
Addressing the gathering, Javed Rana highlighted the role of Anganwadi workers in promoting child welfare, women empowerment and community health awareness.
He said the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to strengthening healthcare, education and social welfare institutions across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in rural and tribal regions.
The minister said Anganwadi centres play an important role in improving the nutritional and health status of children and creating awareness among mothers regarding healthcare, balanced nutrition, immunisation and child development.
He added that the ICDS scheme aims to strengthen the psychological, physical and social development of children while helping reduce malnutrition, morbidity and mortality among women and children.
Javed Rana stressed the need to further strengthen Anganwadi services and called for sustained efforts to improve their functioning and outreach.
He assured continued government support for improving infrastructure, ensuring timely availability of resources and creating better working conditions for Anganwadi Workers and Helpers.
Congratulating the newly selected workers and helpers, the minister urged them to serve people with dedication and contribute towards the welfare of women and children in their respective areas.
The programme was attended by officials of concerned departments, local representatives and members of the public, who appreciated the government’s efforts to strengthen grassroots welfare institutions and expand employment opportunities in the region.
